Citing inhumane conditions of puppy and kitten mills, Canton has barred pet shops in the city from selling dogs and cats.
Consumers still can acquire dogs and cats offered for adoption by pet shops working with animal care facilities and animal rescue organizations, direct from shelters and rescue groups, and from hobby breeders where the conditions under which animals are bred can be seen, according to an ordinance approved recently by the City Council.
The measure cites Humane Society of the United States estimates that 10,000 puppy mills produce more than 1 million puppies a year, and says most pet shop dogs and cats come from such sources.
“The documented abuses … include over breeding; inbreeding; minimal to non-existent veterinary care; lack of adequate and nutritious food, water and shelter; lack of socialization; lack of adequate space; and lack of adequate exercise,” with resulting health and behavioral problems for consumers who buy the animals, the ordinance says.
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